The Best Spotting Scope Under 500 in 2024

You’ve decided you need a spotting scope to view wildlife, but what type should you buy? Most spotting scopes are designed to help you see things up close. But that’s not the only reason you might want one. 

If you’re an avid photographer or birdwatcher, you might want a spotting scope that has both high-power magnification and a wide field of view so you can see things far away. As you may know, there are different types of spotting scopes out there, and each one has its pros and cons. 

To choose the best spotting scope, you will have to consider these factors: magnification power, light gathering power, weight, price and portability. Below, we will go over these factors and help you choose the best spotting scope under 500.

Best Spotting Scopes under 500

• Bushnell Legend Ultra - Our Choice

• Konus 7122 - Seamless design

• Kowa TSN-600 Series - Weatherproof

• Vanguard Endeavor - For hunting

• Celestron Regal M2 - Solid performance

• Barska - Compact

• Celestron 52332 TrailSeeker - Comes with a comfortable case

1. The quality of the spotting scope. If you're looking at a lower quality spotting scope, it may not be worth the investment.

2. The company's reputation. Make sure to research the company you're considering to make sure they're reputable and have a good track record.

3. The price. Don't just go with the first company you find - get quotes from a few different companies to make sure you're getting the best deal.

4. The warranty. Most spotting scopes have warranties that range from 3 to 12 months. Look for a warranty that covers parts and labor, and one that provides extended coverage for accidental damage.

5. The size. Most spotting scopes come in either a 40-60mm or 60-80mm. You'll want to choose a scope that fits the lenses of your camera.

1. Should I buy spotting scopes?

Yes, you should consider buying a spotting scope to look through your telescope. Spotting scopes are especially useful when observing planets, deep sky objects, and other celestial objects, and if you already own a telescope. It is a good idea to buy a spotting scope that's designed specifically for telescopes and has a focal length of 50mm or less.

2. What are the best spotting scopes for hunting?

There are a few things to consider when purchasing spotting scopes for hunting. The most important factor is magnification, and the amount of light it can gather. A good scope has a magnification of 7x to 10x, and is capable of gathering 2-3 times more light than the human eye. This will allow you to see better, and spot the smallest objects in the field.

Another thing to consider is the price. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, then the Orion 8x50mm spotting scope is a great choice. If you’re looking for a higher quality scope, then the Nikon Monarch spotting scope or the Nikon Spotter spotting scope are worth considering.

3. How can I get started with spotting scopes?

Spotting scopes are very versatile tools. They can be used to hunt small animals, search for treasure, and take amazing photos. It all depends on what you want to achieve. You should consider buying a spotting scope based on your preferences, and start with that. You can also check out our beginner’s guide to spotting scopes, which will help you get started with the right equipment.

In conclusion, There are a few ways you can go about searching for the best spotting scopes under 500 dollars, all of which have their pros and cons. You can search online, read reviews, ask friends, and look at websites like ours, where we share our personal experiences with each of the spotting scopes that we test. We hope that after reading this article, you’ll find the right spotting scope for your needs and budget.